A used car can look great and still hide an expensive problem. A pre-purchase inspection is a small cost that can save you thousands, or give you the facts to negotiate the price down. We work for you, not the seller.
What we check
We go through the car the way we would our own before buying it. That includes:
- Engine — leaks, oil condition, smoke, noises and general health
- Transmission and clutch — operation, leaks and how it drives
- Brakes — pads, rotors and fluid
- Suspension and steering — wear, play and leaks
- Tyres — tread, wear pattern and age, including the spare
- Battery and charging system
- Electrics — lights, accessories and dash warnings
- Body and chassis — rust, panel condition and signs of past repairs or a repaint
- Underbody — leaks and damage
- A scan for stored fault codes
- A road test to check how it drives, brakes and shifts
We tell you what's good, what needs attention soon, and what would stop us buying it.
You get a written report
After the inspection you get a clear written report you can act on. It lists the car's condition, any faults, and what they're likely to mean for you. If we find issues, you can walk away, or use the report to negotiate a fairer price. Either way you're deciding with the facts.
Why get an inspection before you buy
Sellers don't always know, or mention, everything wrong with a car. A shiny exterior can sit over worn brakes, a tired engine, or signs of a previous accident. Spending a small amount on an inspection can save you from a much bigger repair bill later, and it gives you a genuine reason to negotiate. For a car being sold privately, we'd always recommend one.
It's also worth doing your own PPSR check for finance owing or a written-off history, which is separate from our mechanical inspection. We'll focus on the condition of the car itself.
We come to the car
You don't need to arrange for the car to be brought anywhere. We meet the seller at their location, inspect the car there, and report back to you. That keeps it simple, and it means the car is checked exactly as it's being sold.
What does a pre-purchase inspection cost?
It's a fixed price for the inspection and report, quoted up front and based on the type of vehicle. Guide pricing from $180. Given what a hidden fault can cost, it's one of the cheapest bits of insurance when buying a used car.
How it works
- Send us the details. Give us the car, and the seller's location and contact.
- We inspect it. We meet the seller, check the car thoroughly, and road test it.
- You get the report. We send through the written report and talk you through anything important.
Why book your inspection with us
We work for you, not the seller, so the report is honest.
We come to the car, wherever it's being sold in Brisbane.
A clear written report you can use to decide or negotiate.
Cert III qualified, insured mechanics with 10+ years checking cars across Brisbane.